What School Could Be

Spotlight on

Pennsylvania

highlighting REMAKE LEARNING

Innovation, Creativity, and Community in Education.

Education in Pennsylvania is transforming, driven by innovation, creativity, and student-centered learning. Schools and communities are shifting from traditional models to more flexible, engaging, and equitable approaches that prepare students for the future.

A key focus is reimagining learning environments. Schools are designing student-centered spaces that promote exploration, collaboration, and creativity. Moving beyond traditional classrooms, these flexible spaces encourage hands-on discovery and real-world problem-solving.

Beyond physical spaces, Pennsylvania’s educational landscape is enriched by initiatives like Remake Learning Days, an annual festival offering hands-on learning experiences for youth and families. Celebrating its 10th anniversary in 2025, this festival spans various venues—including libraries, schools, and museums—highlighting the state’s commitment to community-based learning. 

These shifts reflect a broader vision—where schools are hubs of innovation, creativity, and community. By embracing forward-thinking approaches, Pennsylvania is shaping a future where learning is more relevant, engaging, and empowering for all students.

Watch. Be inspired. Share. The future of education is taking shape in Pennsylvania — we invite you to be part of it. If you would like to learn more about these initiatives, or if you are interested in hosting a screening and discussion of these films, please contact us at info@whatschoolcouldbe.org.

Explore The Innovations

Check out the videos below to go deeper into each innovation's remarkable story.

Beacons of Hope Part 1

Caring & Connected Communities

Beacons of Hope Part 2

Caring & Connected Communities

Beacons of Hope Part 3

Caring & Connected Communities

Beacons of Hope Part 4

Caring & Connected Communities

Listen

Hear directly from some of these incredible educators on the Remaking Tomorrow podcast!

S3 Ep1: Valerie Kinloch, University of Pittsburgh

Valerie Kinloch, the Renée and Richard Goldman dean of the University of Pittsburgh School of Education, joins us to talk about the importance of supporting and equipping educators to do their best work with each learner.

S6 Ep8: Tyler Samstag, Remake Learning

Tyler Samstag, executive director of Remake Learning, joins us to talk about the network's groups and festivals that help to establish healthy learning ecosystems for the benefit of all learners and educators.

S7 Ep5: Jodi Mindell, PhD, Psychologist/Researcher

Jodi Mindell, psychologist, researcher, and associate director of the Sleep Center at Children's Hospital of Philadelphia, joins Ryan Rydzewski and guest host Kathy Hirsh-Pasek to talk about the importance of sleep for infants and families and to give context to updated infant sleep recommendations.

S3 Ep12: Suzanne Walsh, Bennett College

Suzanne Walsh, president of Bennett College, joins us to reflect on her years working in Pittsburgh philanthropy as an idea scout helping people to find shared values and growth together.

Read

Dive into books that inspired—and were inspired by—educators transforming learning across the world.

When You Wonder, You're Learning: Mister Rogers' Enduring Lessons for Raising Creative, Curious, Caring Kids

Bring the lessons of Mister Rogers' Neighborhood into the digital age, as this book helps guide parents to raise more creative, curious and caring kids—from the founder of the acclaimed education network Remake Learning.